ALX Nigeria, a tech training platform, has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the digital skills gap in Nigeria. The organization has recently introduced its 2024 tech programs, which cover a wide range of areas, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) Essentials, software engineering, data analytics, Customer Relations Management (CRM) tools, and AWS Cloud Computing. These programs aim to equip Nigerian youths, aged between 18 and 34, with the necessary digital skills at little to no cost.
The country general manager of ALX Nigeria, Ruby Igwe, highlighted the shortage of digital skills in Nigeria, emphasizing that only 35% of Nigerians possess basic digital skills, compared to the global average of 55%. This skills gap has created a significant disparity between the number of available jobs and the number of qualified professionals to fill them.
To bridge this gap, ALX Nigeria has partnered with the MasterCard Foundation to provide technology skills training to over 120,000 Nigerian youths since 2019. In line with their goal to train as many youths as possible who apply for their programs in 2024, ALX Nigeria has expanded their offerings to include AI Essentials, recognizing the potential of AI in driving career growth for Nigerian youths. ALX Nigeria currently operates in 10 locations in Lagos, with plans to open new centers in Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Seun Babajide-Duroshola, the growth country manager of ALX Nigeria, emphasized that their curriculum aligns with international tech standards to ensure that learners are equipped with the skills to compete globally. In addition to technical training, ALX also focuses on developing soft skills and provides support in job placement, CV revamping, and interview preparation.
Ufuoma Emonena, the funding and partnerships officer of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), announced a partnership between LSETF and ALX Nigeria to empower entrepreneurs and provide employment opportunities in the tech sector. As Lagos state plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economic growth, this partnership aims to foster tech innovation and entrepreneurship by leveraging ALX’s expertise, network, and resources to equip aspiring tech entrepreneurs in Lagos with the necessary tools and knowledge for success.
The collaboration between ALX Nigeria and LSETF seeks to create a skilled pool of professionals and tech enthusiasts in Lagos, thereby unlocking the full potential of the tech ecosystem and fostering growth, prosperity, and innovation.
Overall, ALX Nigeria’s commitment to bridging the digital skills gap in Nigeria through its comprehensive tech training programs, along with collaborations with organizations like the MasterCard Foundation and LSETF, aims to empower Nigerian youths and contribute to the advancement of the country’s tech landscape.
